211 Service Assists Those in Need Statewide

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Peggy-Sue Griffin / 2-1-1 Program Director in North-West Alabama

211 Service Assists Those in Need Statewide

Peggy-Sue Griffin / 2-1-1 Program Director in North-West Alabama

FLORENCE, Ala. (WHNT) – With frigid temperatures set to hit the Valley over the coming days, many people may need assistance making it through with heat, clothing, or even food.

There is a service for that. It’s a free service that puts those in need in touch with organizations that can help them.

She’s the voice on the other end of the line, and she is helping others get through all kinds of circumstances dozens of times a day.

Peggy-Sue Griffin is the Program Director of ‘211’ in northwest Alabama.

“I get people thanking me every day and it’s rewarding,” stated Griffin.

It’s rewarding because Griffin acts as a liaison at 211.

When someone calls 2-1-1, operators go through a list of resources in their particular area that can assist them with even the most basic necessities.

“Heat for their homes, winter clothes, and help with their electric bills,” explained Griffin, “because the electric bills have gone up over the last couple of weeks.”

Griffin said the service is free to anyone, but they don’t need to wait until the last second to ask for help.

“They are very surprised with the resources that are available to them based on maybe their age or where they live, and the additional resources that have become available over the last couple of years,” said Griffin

According to Griffin, more than $2.5 million has been indirectly given out in the Shoals through the efforts of 211 since its inception in 2007.

The 211 operator line is open 24 hours a day seven days a week, and the call is free and can be used by anyone in the state of Alabama.